About the Company:TASK Laboratory is a core team within TASK, a clinical research institute and social enterprise, and is committed to state-of-the-art biological laboratory testing and providing these as a service during the development and progression of novelty medicines, vaccines and diagnostics, in particular the TB therapeutic area. TASK performs clinical trials at various sites in Cape Town and George, South Africa.TASK Laboratory consists of biohazard-safety level 2 and 3 (BSL-2/3) laboratories, together with sample reception and media laboratories, and performs testing for drug susceptible and drug resistant TB, using established diagnostic methods and new research platforms.Overall Purpose of the Position:The Laboratory Manager oversees and manages all operations within the TASK laboratory (mycobacteriology, phage program and scientific streams). This encompasses planning, organizing, and supervising all testing procedures and subsequent analysis for studies conducted in the lab. The Laboratory Manager acts as the primary liaison between sponsors and the laboratory, ensuring that all work aligns with sponsors' requirements and the laboratory's capabilities while also fostering a collaborative and productive work environment for the laboratory staff within the larger TASK organisation. The Laboratory Manager is responsible for maintaining the facility to meet regulatory and ISO standards, ensuring a safe and efficient working environment for all personnel. Furthermore, the Manager provides scientific and technical guidance to the laboratory staff, serving as a leader in advancing research and maintaining high standards of quality and efficiency.Key Performance Areas (KPAs) & Responsibilities include, but not limited to:Overseeing the daily operations of the laboratory, ensuring that all laboratory activities comply with the relevant policies, procedures and standardsEnsuring project planning and implementation of all testing according to the trial plan for each study conducted through TASK LaboratoryManaging laboratory budgets and expenditure, ordering of supplies and proactive maintenance of equipment, with consideration of cost/benefit/safety implicationsInterpreting and applying clinical trial protocolsEnsuring that good quality, timely result data is consistently producedProviding expertise and reviewing and approving all laboratory standard operating procedures (SOPs)Managing and supporting laboratory management team with performance discussions, feedback, the provision of training opportunities and aligning individual goals with laboratory objectives. Enabling the laboratory to adhere to business standards, practices, procedures and protocol requirementsEnsuring that the quality management system for the laboratory is in place and is being adhered to, ensuring the accuracy and reliability of laboratory results and investigating and resolving any issues relating to laboratory quality or safetyEnsuring a safe and efficient working environment for all personnel with the adherence to all biosafety and biosecurity protocols, especially in the BSL-3 unitCommunicating effectively with all relevant stakeholders, through e-mails, meetings and teleconferencesPreparing and presenting reports on laboratory activities, progress of research projects and compliance with safety regulations as requiredFacilitating effective communication within the laboratory teamEnsuring that there are sufficient, appropriately trained staff and other resources in place to perform each studyMonitoring trends, identifying significant project risks and dealing with potential problems before they occur. Ensuring idea-sharing and problem-solving among team membersContributing intellectually to the scientific direction of research projects and studiesMaintaining and broadening the scope of the laboratoryIdeal RequirementsMSc or PhD in (micro-)biology, chemistry, biochemistry or other health and science fieldAt least five years' experience in managing laboratory operationsBasic project management skills to coordinate workflows, set priorities, and allocate resources efficiently to meet project deadlines and objectives. Experience in inventory management to track and maintain supplies, reagents, and consumables necessary for laboratory operationsKnowledge of good clinical laboratory practice (GCLP) guidelines and regulationsUnderstanding of QA/QC principles and practices to ensure accurate and reliable resultsExperience in clinical trials (advantageous)Key Personal Inherent CharacteristicsLeads by example in line with TASK's cultureExcellent planning and organising skills, with the ability to work systematically and sequentiallyPersonal effectiveness and the ability to work in a pressurised environment, with strict adherence to timelinesExcellent communication and interpersonal skillsCompetent in identifying obstacles or problems and implementing an appropriate action planAbility and willingness to adapt working hours in response to the business needs which may change from time to time in response to operational requirementsDetails:Area: Parow, Cape TownContract Type: PermanentApplications Close: 17 June 2024Please submit a SEPARATE Letter of Motivation with your application and indicate in your application that you are applying for the above-mentioned position. Applications without a comprehensive CV and Motivation letter will NOT be considered.If you have not received a response within two weeks, your application was most likely unsuccessful.TASK reserves the right to withdraw this advertisement and not fill the above-mentioned vacancy at any stage during the recruitment process.Meeting our employment equity goals will be acknowledged during the recruitment process. By responding to this advert and sending your cv, cover letter and/or any other documentation, you are consenting to TASK processing your personal information as contained in the furnished documents. TASK may process your personal information for recruitment purposes for suitable posts that may arise within the organisation. You agree that you have familiarised yourself with South Africa's Protection of Personal Information Act and understand your rights and obligations under this Act.Job Types: Full-time, PermanentApplication Question(s):What are your gross monthly salary expectations (before deductions)?What is your notice period?Education:Masters (Preferred)Experience:Laboratory Management: 5 years (Preferred)Application Deadline: 2024/06/17#J-18808-Ljbffr
